Pin A rich and comforting bowl of orzo pasta simmered in a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes spinach and a hint of Italian herbs. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
I first made this creamy Tuscan orzo bowl on a rainy evening for my family and we all loved how rich and satisfying each spoonful was. It quickly became a favorite comfort food in our house.
Ingredients
- Orzo pasta: 1 ½ cups (300 g)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (960 ml)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Yellow onion: 1 small finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced
- Sun-dried tomatoes: 1 cup (50 g) drained and sliced
- Baby spinach: 4 cups (120 g)
- Heavy cream: ¾ cup (180 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: ½ cup (50 g) grated
- Dried Italian herbs: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): ½ teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
Instructions
- Sauté Onion:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook for 3 4 minutes until translucent.
- Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
- Stir in garlic and sun-dried tomatoes cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Toast Orzo:
- Add orzo to the skillet and toast for 2 minutes stirring frequently.
- Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook stirring occasionally for 8 10 minutes until orzo is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Add Dairy and Herbs:
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream Parmesan Italian herbs and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and cook for 2 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Wilt Spinach:
- Add baby spinach and stir until wilted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Pin 
Sharing this Tuscan orzo bowl at our weekend dinners always brings a smile to everyone. Its warmth and flavor makes it a go-to dish for those cozy family evenings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy orzo bowl with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio for an elevated experience or serve with a side of garlic bread for extra comfort.
Recipe Variations
For added protein stir in white beans or grilled chicken (if not vegetarian). Swap half-and-half for heavy cream to lighten it up.
Nutrition
Each serving of this Tuscan orzo bowl has about 430 calories 18 g total fat 54 g carbohydrates and 13 g protein.
Pin This bowl is always a comforting treat and perfect to impress guests when you need a quick delicious meal. Enjoy every creamy bite.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What is the best way to cook orzo for this dish?
Toast the orzo lightly in olive oil before simmering in vegetable broth to infuse extra flavor and help achieve a perfect al dente texture.
- → Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream for a lighter yet still creamy sauce consistency.
- → How do sun-dried tomatoes enhance the dish?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated, slightly tangy sweetness, balancing the creamy sauce and enriching the Tuscan flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this bowl is vegetarian-friendly, featuring no meat and relying on vegetable broth, dairy, and fresh vegetables for flavor.
- → What herbs complement the flavors best?
Dried Italian herbs add a subtle blend of oregano, basil, and thyme, enhancing the dish without overpowering the creamy sauce.
- → Can I add protein to this bowl?
Additional protein can be included by stirring in cooked white beans or grilled chicken for a non-vegetarian option.